00 Effective Initiatives Towards Respect, Security, and Self-Reliance
Author: Dr. Daneshwari Sambhakar, Deputy Director (Public Relations),
Raipur. The Chhattisgarh government is giving top priority to the respect, security, and overall well-being of senior citizens. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, the state government has developed a robust and sensitive social security system for the elderly. Under the guidance of Social Welfare Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade, departmental schemes are being effectively implemented on the ground. These efforts are empowering senior citizens economically, socially, and emotionally.
Simple Process, Easy Benefits
: Senior citizens in the state do not require a separate senior citizen card to avail benefits of schemes. Benefits are provided directly after verifying age and eligibility through Aadhaar card and other valid documents, making the entire process transparent, simple, and accessible.
Old Age Homes: The Foundation of a Respectable Life
The 27 old age homes operating in various districts, including the state capital Raipur, have emerged as safe havens for destitute and helpless senior citizens. Currently, 675 senior citizens are benefiting from this program. Free housing, nutritious food, clothing, and other essential amenities are regularly provided, allowing them to live a dignified life.

Palliative Care:
Thirteen palliative care homes operate in the state to provide specialized care to the seriously ill and bedridden elderly. Currently, 140 senior citizens are benefiting from these centers in Raipur, Kabirdham, Durg, Balod, Raigarh, and Bemetara. These centers provide ongoing care, treatment support, and essential services, ensuring a humane and dignified life even in vulnerable situations. Old
Age Pension:
Under Social Security, a foundation of economic support, eligible senior citizens are provided a regular pension. Senior citizens in the BPL and SECC disadvantaged groups receive a pension of ₹500 per month, and those over 80 receive ₹680 per month. This assistance strengthens their self-reliance and self-respect in their daily lives.
Assistive Devices and Pilgrimage: A New Energy Infusion
Under the Assistive Devices for Senior Citizens Scheme, the state government is providing assistive devices as needed to destitute senior citizens aged 60 years and above living below the poverty line. Under this scheme, devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, canes, hearing aids, spectacles, tricycles, and other essential items, up to a maximum of ₹6,900, are provided based on medical advice, making their lives more comfortable. The pilgrimage scheme to 19 major pilgrimage sites provides opportunities for spiritual and mental balance, which infuses new energy into their lives. In the financial year 2025-26, 14 pilgrimages benefited 10,694 beneficiaries. The Chhattisgarh government's
continuous efforts towards holistic well-being
aim not only to provide assistance but also to inspire senior citizens to actively participate in mainstream society. The state is establishing a robust, sensitive, and comprehensive social security system for its senior citizens through pensions, health care, housing, support services, and social engagement. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai and Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade, these efforts will continue to progress even more effectively in the future, bringing dignity to the lives of the elderly.